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Cybersecurity glossary

Explore cybersecurity term by term — learn the lingo that keeps you safe online.

Explore by category

Discover topics that matter to you.

Security concepts and tools

Core cybersecurity technologies and principles

Encryption and cryptography

Authentication and access control

Security concepts

Firewall terms

Network and communication security

Main tools for secure network communication

Networking Fundamentals

VPN terms

DNS terms

Protocols and standards

Threats and cyberattacks

Cybersecurity threats and attack methods explained

Malware and exploits

Phishing and social engineering

Network and application attacks

Data breaches and identity theft

Cybercrime and cyber extortion

Governance, risk and compliance (GRC)

Organizational cybersecurity and compliance

Cybersecurity governance

Privacy and compliance

Fraud, espionage, and hacktivism

Risk management and monitoring

Incident response and recovery

Web and connectivity

Secure online and wireless communications

Systems and devices

Security for devices, operating systems, and infrastructure

Operating systems and platforms

Mobile and IoT security

Hardware and device security

Server and infrastructure

Data management and storage

Protection of stored data and backup systems

Database security

Storage

Backup

Technologies and trends

Cloud, AI, and blockchain technologies explained

Cloud and virtualization

AI and machine learning

Blockchain

The importance of cybersecurity terminology

Getting familiar with cybersecurity terms helps you spot, handle, and stop online threats before they become serious problems. Familiarize yourself with cybersecurity terminology to:

Recognize threats

When you know what phishing or ransomware looks like, you can stop the attack before it causes damage.

Make informed decisions

Understanding cybersecurity may help you choose the right tools and practices to protect your online activity.

Stay ahead of scammers

Cybercriminals feed on your confusion — knowing their tactics may help you see through their tricks.

Two women learning cybersecurity terminology.

Key cybersecurity terms you should know

Learn some basic terms to help you grasp the nuances of online security.

DNS

DNS translates website names (like google.com) into IP addresses (like 142.250.80.46) so your device knows where to find websites.

Firewall

A firewall filters network traffic by blocking potentially harmful connections while allowing legitimate data to pass through your device.

Artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence is technology that enables computers to mimic aspects of human intelligence like learning, thinking, and making decisions.

Scam

Scams are deceptive schemes where criminals manipulate the victim to steal money or personal information.

Fraud

Fraud is when someone uses deception or false information to gain money, property, or services that don't belong to them.

Exploit

An exploit is when a criminal takes advantage of someone’s weakness or vulnerability to gain unauthorized access or financial benefit.

Cloud computing

Cloud computing is technology that lets you store files and run programs online instead of on your computer.

GDPR

The GDPR is a European law that gives people control over how companies collect, use, and protect their personal data.

Encryption

Encryption is technology that scrambles information into gibberish to keep it safe from unauthorized access.

WAN

A WAN is a network that connects computers and devices across large distances, like between cities or countries.

Web server

A web server is software and hardware that receives HTTP and HTTPS requests from browsers and responds with web content.

Recent cybersecurity terms and definitions

Stay up to date with the latest security terminology.

AI fraud detection

AI fraud detection refers to the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning (ML) algorithms to identify, prevent, and mitigate fraudulent activities within various domains, such as financial transactions, identity verification, and online commerce.

Adversarial attacks

Adversarial attacks are malicious techniques designed to trick artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning systems into making mistakes.

AI threat detection

AI threat detection involves the application of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) algorithms to identify, analyze, and respond to cyber threats in real time.

DNS fallback

DNS fallback is a mechanism where a client or resolver attempts to use an alternative DNS server or resolution method when the primary DNS resolver fails entirely, such as due to a server crash or network failure.

Potentially unwanted search engine

A potentially unwanted search engine (PUSE) is a program that alters a user's web browser settings without explicit consent, often redirecting their searches to unwanted sites or displaying excessive advertisements.

Vulnerability scanning

Vulnerability scanning is an automated process used to identify potential security weaknesses in computer networks, systems, and applications.

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Why NordVPN cares about covering cybersecurity terminology

At NordVPN, we believe that cybersecurity should be accessible and easily understandable. We cover these terms because informed users make smarter decisions — if you're aware of what phishing or malware can look like, you can better protect your online presence. Plus, an equipped user contributes to a more trustworthy internet for everyone, turning the tables for cybercriminals.

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